PALM BEACH, Fla, Nov. 3, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- FinancialNewsMedia.com News Commentary - The non-alcoholic beverages market survived a downturn during the pandemic and is projected to continue to substantially grow in the years to come. Carbonated soft drinks, bottled waters, juices & nectars, dairy-based and dairy alternative beverages, RTD tea and coffee, and energy drinks are the different non-alcoholic beverages. The sugar-free category is gaining significant traction among consumers due to rising health concerns and the high prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases in various countries across the globe. Moreover, functional drinks and fortified beverages are also witnessing high demand due to the growing focus on health and nutrition. These factors are driving the non-alcoholic beverages market growth.  In the pre-pandemic period, the non-alcoholic beverages market was mainly driven by high demand for healthy drinks and on-the-go beverages. However, due to the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020, many industries faced unprecedented challenges. The food and beverage manufacturers witnessed a slow growth in the initial phase of the pandemic due to the shutdown of manufacturing units and supply chain disruptions. However, a shift in consumer lifestyle, a rise in preference for healthy dietary practices, and an increase in the health-conscious population have substantially promoted the demand for non-alcoholic beverages. The demand for plant-based beverages such as soy, almond, and coconut milk increased two-fold after the pandemic as consumers believe that plant-based beverages offer more nutritional value than conventional ones. According to the Mintel report published in June 2020, 25% of the surveyed consumers in the UK agreed that a vegan diet seemed appealing due to the pandemic. These factors had a positive impact on the non-alcoholic beverages market growth.  Active companies in the markets this week include Golden Grail Technology (OTCPK: GOGY), National Beverage Corp. (NASDAQ: FIZZ) Celsius Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: CELH), The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO), Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. (NASDAQ: KDP).